Local Student Named Fur-Free Finalist in Fashion Design Contest

The Humane Society of the U.S.'s fashion design contest Cool vs. Cruel challenges students of The Art Institutes to reinterpret a "furry" runway look by crafting an improved, animal-friendly version. This year's competition culls from inhumane designs by Fendi, Alexander McQueen, Gucci and Oscar de la Renta. Local fashion student Melissa Hoffman from The Art Institute of California-Los Angeles represents SoCal this year.

Hoffman is in.

Her chic design earned her a spot as one of 18 finalists in the seventh annual competition. Her work was chosen among 200 other entries.

"I became inspired by the fabric I had chosen," said Hoffman, per a release. "When I found the vinyl crocodile print, I knew it was perfect to give my dress the edgy look I wanted to give it. Next, I found this organic-looking burlap embroidered fabric, and knew I wanted to find a way to pair the fabrics together."

Finalists each received a cash prize, and the grand prize winner will be gifted with an expense-paid, week-long internship in New York City with a celebrated designer from the panel of judges. The panel includes designers John Bartlett, Victoria Bartlett, Marc Bouwer, Ally Chomer, Leanne Hilgart, Elizabeth Olsen; fashion photographer Nigel Barker; magazine editors Mickey Boardman and Shelly Vella and The Discerning Brute blog founder Joshua Katcher.

In other humane fashion news, PETA recently partnered with actress Laura Vandervoort to pose as the sexy reptile in their Exotic Skins campaign. Additionally, WeHo may soon become the first U.S. city to ban the sale of fur.